Farm Manager
X Lazy B Ranch is building a well-run, self-reliant operation that grows fresh, organic food for our farm-to-table program and raises the livestock and feed behind it. We're looking for a Farm Manager to take ownership of our organic produce and field crops, along with our hay and pasture and the equipment, irrigation, and crews that support them. Reporting to the Ranch Director and working side by side with our Orchard Manager, this is a hands-on leadership role for someone who plans ahead, cares about healthy soil and good food, and takes pride in a farm that runs smoothly.
Job Duties
Farm Manager typically has a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:
- Organic Produce & Crop Production: Plan and manage planting, irrigation, and harvest of organic vegetables, greens, herbs, and other fresh crops for our farm-to-table program, build seasonal crop plans and rotations, and time harvests so food reaches the table fresh.
- Field, Pasture & Food: Grow and harvest hay and forage, maintain healthy pastures and grazing rotations, and work with the ranch's livestock teams to keep feed quality and supply steady through the year.
- Soil, Irrigation & Equipment: Build soil health with compost and organic amendments, manage irrigation, oversee tractors, implements, fencing, and water systems, coordinate repairs with the farm mechanic, and share equipment and scheduling with the Orchard Manager.
- Team Leadership & Scheduling: Assign daily work, supervise and train farm and ranch hands, set clear priorities, and keep crews working safely and efficiently, sharing labor with the orchard team during peak times such as harvest.
- Coordination, Food Safety & Records: Meet regularly with the Ranch Director and Orchard Manager to align priorities, follow food safety practices for harvest and handling, enforce safe work practices, including heat illness prevention, and keep accurate records of inputs, yields, and organic practices.
Requirements:
- Strong background in farm operations, including fresh produce, hay, and forage production, with basic knowledge of livestock feeding programs.
- Working knowledge of organic growing practices, including soil building, crop rotation, and pest management without synthetic chemicals.
- Hands-on experience operating and maintaining tractors, implements, and irrigation systems.
- Ability to plan seasonal work, prioritize tasks, and keep multiple projects moving at once.
- Experience directing or supervising a crew, with clear communication and fair follow-through.
- Takes ownership and solves problems without being told, while working well with the Ranch Director, Orchard Manager, and other managers.
- Willing to work long days, some weekends, and in demanding physical conditions in all weather; able to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Valid driver's license.
Preferred (Not Required):
- Experience with organic certification standards and record-keeping.
- Background in cattle, dairy, or broader ranch management.
- Experience growing for restaurants, farm stands, or direct-to-consumer sales.
- Experience managing budgets and input purchasing, and familiarity with farm record-keeping software.
Pay Range: [$75,000 to $85,000/Year]
Join us at X Lazy B Ranch and help us grow fresh, organic food on a productive, well-managed farm!